Matsuura MAM72

A new Matsuura MAM72-35V typically runs between $400,000 and $700,000 depending on configuration. A base machine with the 32-pallet tower, standard 12,000 RPM spindle, and 60-tool magazine starts around $400,000. Adding high-speed spindle options, expanded tool magazines (up to 520 tools), through-spindle coolant, and probing pushes the price to $500,000-$600,000. Larger variants like the MAM72-52V and MAM72-63V cost more due to increased work envelope. Used MAM72 machines from 2015-2020 typically sell for $150,000-$350,000 depending on variant, hours, and tool capacity.

MAM stands for 'Multi-Axis Machining' and the 72 refers to the machine's designed capability for 72 hours of continuous unmanned operation—a full weekend from Friday evening to Monday morning. The suffix (35V, 52V, 63V, 100H) indicates the maximum workpiece diameter in the series. The V denotes vertical spindle orientation and H denotes horizontal. Matsuura pioneered this concept in 1991, and the tower pallet system that enables it has become the machine's signature feature.

These machines serve different priorities. The MAM72-35V's standard 32-pallet tower system is purpose-built for unattended production, while the Hermle C 250 prioritizes absolute precision and surface finish quality with its mineral-cast frame. The Hermle handles much heavier workpieces (1,100 kg vs 60 kg) and larger parts. The MAM72 wins on automation integration, tool capacity (up to 520 vs 42 standard), and unattended production time. Choose the MAM72 for lights-out production of small parts; choose the Hermle for heavy, high-precision work where surface finish is paramount.

The MAM72 series includes several variants sized for different workpiece envelopes: the MAM72-25V (250mm diameter), MAM72-35V (350mm diameter), MAM72-52V (520mm diameter), MAM72-63V (630mm diameter), and the MAM72-100H (horizontal variant for larger parts). Each variant shares the core tower pallet automation concept but scales the work envelope, spindle power, and load capacity accordingly. The 35V and 52V are the most widely installed variants.

Yes, though with some limitations due to the BT 40 taper. The standard 12,000 RPM spindle can machine titanium alloys at moderate chip loads, and the machine's thermal stability supports the long cycle times typical of hard material work. For titanium-intensive applications, the higher-torque spindle option is recommended. Inconel machining is feasible but the BT 40 taper limits the rigidity and torque available compared to HSK-A63 or BT 50 machines. The MAM72's strength in hard materials is consistency over long unattended runs rather than aggressive metal removal rates.

The MAM72 uses a FANUC 31i-B5 control with Matsuura's proprietary pallet management software overlay. The pallet scheduling system manages the 32-pallet tower, assigning pallets to programs, tracking tool life across the expanded magazine, and coordinating production queues for unattended operation. The FANUC base provides compatibility with standard CAM post-processors and G-code programming, while Matsuura's software layer handles the automation intelligence.